Visiting Irish Minister for investment and coordination Conor Lenihan yesterday met State Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Hasan Mahmud at his office in the city.

They discussed matters of mutual interests between Bangladesh and Ireland.

The state minister said Ireland could take skilled professionals from Bangladesh in IT sector.

The meeting also discussed investment and trade situation between the two countries.

Dr Hasan said there is large scope for increasing bilateral trade.

After the present democratic government assumed power, an excellent investment environment is prevailing in the country, he said, adding the Irish investors can invest in Bangladesh availing the opportunity

The state minister said Ireland is a friendly country of Bangladesh.

“We can cooperate with each other in different issues in international arena. Steps should also be taken to further strengthen relations between the two countries,” he added.